Esther Rachel Collins McBride Puckett

Mrs. Esther Rachel Collins McBride Puckett, 85, of Mount Airy, passed away peacefully on Tuesday morning, May 20, 2025, at the Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home in Dobson. Mrs. Puckett was born December 27, 1939, in Surry County, one of ten children born to the late James B. and Ester Boyles Collins. Rachel spent the majority of her career in the textile mills of Mount Airy, where her steady hands and tireless work ethic earned the respect of all who knew her. In an industry built on strength and resilience, she stood out for her unwavering commitment and quiet dignity. A devoted member of The Salvation Army, Rachel lived a life of service, humility, and grace. Her faith in God was unshakeable, guiding every step she took. She gave generously of her time and heart, always ready to help those in need, pray with someone in sorrow, or rejoice in someone else’s blessings. Above all, she was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. Her home was a place of warmth, laughter, and unconditional love. Her family was her greatest joy, and she nurtured them with wisdom, patience, and unwavering care. She is survived by a daughter, Rebecca McBride Hull (Donnie); three sons, Rawley Raymond McBride, Jr. (Cynthia), Charles Edward McBride, and David Lee McBride, Sr. (Jackie); six grandchildren; fourteen great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; a sister, Annie Lee Collins Vernon; and many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents, Mrs. Puckett was preceded in death by her first husband, Rawley Raymond McBride, Sr.; her second husband, Charles Leon Puckett; two daughters-in-law, Lois McBride and Vadie Reece; two granddaughters, Mindy McBride and Michelle Hull Clark; four sisters, Eunice Ruth Collins Holt, Lindie Collins Riddle, Virginia Collins Leftwich, and Hazel Collins Surratt; and four brothers, Harvey Collins, Rossie Collins, Gene Collins, and Dennis Collins. The funeral service will be held Saturday, May 24, 2025, at 4:00 PM at Moody Funeral Home Chapel in Mount Airy, with Major Michael Rodgers officiating. Burial will follow in the McBride Family Cemetery. The family will receive friends Saturday from 3:00 until 4:00 PM at the funeral home. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to The Salvation Army, 651 South South Street, Mount Airy, NC 27030; or the Joan and Howard Woltz Hospice Home, 945 Zephyr Road, Dobson, NC 27017.